Dubai Airshow 2025 opens with record turnout, India marks strong presence

DUBAI AIRSHOW, November 17. The Dubai Airshow 2025 opened today (November 17) at Dubai World Central, kicking off its biggest-ever edition. The global aviation and defence community has gathered in full strength as organisers expect a record turnout and the highest number of exhibitors in the show’s history.

This 19th edition features more than 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 first-time participants, and is expected to attract 148,000 trade visitors along with 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries. The event runs until November 21.

The airshow has expanded significantly this year with 21 national pavilions, 98 chalets, and 8,000 sq. metres of additional exhibition space. Startups continue to be a major highlight, with 120 startups and 50 investors showcasing breakthrough ideas.

India’s Presence at the Airshow

India has a notable presence this year, both in the defence and aviation segments. The Indian Air Force is participating with the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and the indigenous LCA Tejas, reflecting India’s rising aerospace capabilities and its emphasis on self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Several Indian companies — including those from defence technology, aviation services, and manufacturing — are also part of the exhibition, using the platform to explore collaborations, exports, and joint development opportunities with global partners.

Biggest Aircraft Display Yet

Visitors will see over 200 aircraft in flying and static displays — the largest line-up so far. Featured models include:

• Joby Aviation’s eVTOL
• General Atomics’ CCA
• Bristell B23 915 IFR
• COMAC C919 and C929, making their first appearance

The airshow has grown into a leading venue for high-value investments, tech demonstrations, and discussions shaping the future of aviation, defence, and space.

UAE Expands Space Presence

One of the major highlights this year is the largest-ever Space Pavilion, organised with the UAE Space Agency. It brings together global space agencies, private companies, startups, investors, and universities.

The two-day space conference will feature 50+ speakers discussing responsible space activity, new launch and satellite technologies, and upcoming deep-space missions.

UAE officials emphasised that the pavilion reflects the country’s ambition to build a comprehensive and sustainable space economy.

Largest Conference Programme to Date

The 2025 airshow also features its most extensive conference agenda with more than 450 speakers across four stages and 12 content tracks.

New themes include:

• MRO
• Airport and airline keynote sessions hosted by Dubai Airports
• Advanced Air Mobility
• Passenger experience
• Cybersecurity
• Airport technology
• Workforce development

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said the leadership sessions will cover key topics like aviation growth, digital transformation, and sustainability.

A special Sustainability Showcase, organised with dnata, flydubai and partners, will demonstrate a world-first fully sustainable aircraft turnaround.

First eVTOL Flying Display

For the first time in the airshow’s history, an eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft will perform a live flying display. The demonstration will be carried out by Joby Aviation’s eVTOL, marking a milestone in the rise of advanced air mobility.

Startup & Youth Initiatives

This year places strong emphasis on innovation and young talent:

• The Inspiration Zone will feature early-stage companies and founders.
• The NextGen Leaders programme will highlight university-led research.
• Vista, the dedicated startup hub, returns with a strong line-up of emerging innovators.

Sustainability remains central to the event, with use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), electric and propane-powered ground operations, and renewable-energy-powered exhibition halls.

Night Events & Public Displays

For the first time, the Dubai Airshow will extend into the evening with special sessions including:

• “Party on the Runway” at Skydive Dubai
• “Airshow After Dark” with live entertainment and a drone show

The public SkyView arena will run throughout the week with:

• Flying displays
• Aerobatic team performances
• Meet-the-pilot sessions
• Family activities
• Food trucks
• A new VIP viewing deck

With its massive scale, cutting-edge technology, and strong participation from countries like India, Dubai Airshow 2025 is set to shape global aviation and defence conversations for the year ahead, inspiring new partnerships, boosting innovation, and creating exciting opportunities for industry leaders, startups, and young talent across the world.